Could a Reunion Between the Dallas Cowboys and Cooper Rush Happen in 2026?

Could the Dallas Cowboys bring back quarterback Cooper Rush in 2026? It’s a question that is starting to gain traction as roster decisions loom and salary cap implications come into focus. While Rush is currently under contract with the Baltimore Ravens, recent speculation suggests he could become a cap casualty. If that happens, a return to Dallas might not only be possible — it could make strategic sense for both sides.

In this in-depth analysis, we’ll break down Cooper Rush’s contract situation, his performance in Baltimore, the Cowboys’ current quarterback depth chart, and why a 2026 reunion remains a realistic scenario.

Cooper Rush’s NFL Journey: From Undrafted to Reliable Backup

Cooper Rush entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Central Michigan in 2017, signing with the Dallas Cowboys. Over the next several seasons, he established himself as a dependable backup behind franchise quarterback Dak Prescott.

Rush wasn’t flashy, but he proved to be reliable when called upon. Between 2021 and 2024, he started 14 regular-season games for Dallas. His most significant stretch came in 2024, when he started eight games and threw for 1,844 yards, 12 touchdowns, and five interceptions. His steady play helped stabilize the offense during Prescott’s absence and reinforced the value of having a competent QB2.

That performance earned Rush a new opportunity in March 2025, when he signed a two-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens worth up to $12.2 million, including $4.2 million guaranteed. The deal positioned him as the primary backup to dual-threat superstar Lamar Jackson.

Struggles in Baltimore: A Tough Fit Behind Lamar Jackson

Unfortunately for Rush, his tenure with the Ravens did not unfold as planned.

In limited action during the 2025 season, Rush struggled to replicate the success he experienced in Dallas. Starting two games, he posted an 0-2 record while averaging just 125.5 passing yards per game. He threw four interceptions and failed to record a single touchdown pass. Those numbers represent a sharp decline from his efficiency with the Cowboys.

The struggles ultimately dropped him down the depth chart, and he finished the season as QB3. That development has fueled speculation that Rush could be released in 2026 as a post-June 1 cut, potentially saving Baltimore just over $1 million in salary cap space.

Beyond the statistics, scheme fit may have played a significant role. The Ravens’ offense is heavily built around Lamar Jackson’s mobility, designed quarterback runs, and off-script playmaking ability. Rush, a traditional pocket passer, never appeared to be a seamless fit in that system. The contrast in play style may have made it difficult for him to step in and operate the offense effectively.

Why a Cowboys Reunion Makes Sense

If the Ravens move on from Cooper Rush, the Dallas Cowboys could emerge as a logical landing spot. Here’s why:

1. Familiarity With the Organization

Rush knows the Cowboys’ culture, locker room, and expectations. He’s already built relationships with teammates and coaching staff. That familiarity shortens the adjustment period and reduces risk.

2. Experience in the Offensive System

Rush has prior experience operating within the Cowboys’ offensive structure, including familiarity with terminology and scheme concepts. That institutional knowledge matters, especially for a backup quarterback expected to step in seamlessly if needed.

3. Proven QB2 Reliability

Dallas has already seen Rush perform under pressure. He’s shown he can manage games, limit turnovers (during his Cowboys stint), and keep the team competitive. For a franchise with playoff aspirations, that reliability at QB2 is critical insurance behind Prescott.

The Joe Milton Factor: A Complicating Variable

However, a potential reunion isn’t without complications.

Currently, Joe Milton III is entering his third year and is projected to serve as Prescott’s backup in 2026. Milton is on a rookie contract and is scheduled to earn just $1.075 million — making him a budget-friendly option.

Milton appeared in four regular-season games in 2025, completing 15 of 24 passes (62.5%) for 183 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. He posted a passer rating of 65.1 and added 50 rushing yards on five carries, though he did lose one fumble.

The Cowboys acquired Milton in a trade with the New England Patriots, sending a 2025 fifth-round draft pick in exchange for Milton and a seventh-round selection. The front office clearly saw developmental upside in his strong arm and athleticism.

From a financial standpoint, Milton is an easy roster keep. He’s inexpensive and still offers developmental potential. Bringing back Rush would likely push Milton into the QB3 role, raising questions about roster construction and resource allocation.

Financial Implications of Re-Signing Cooper Rush

If Baltimore releases Rush as a post-June 1 cut, he would likely command a modest veteran backup contract rather than a multi-year deal with significant guarantees. That could make him affordable for Dallas — but only if the Cowboys are comfortable allocating additional funds to the quarterback room.

The Cowboys would need to evaluate:

• Prescott’s long-term durability

• Milton’s developmental trajectory

• Salary cap flexibility entering 2026

• The value of veteran insurance versus youth upside

In a league where quarterback injuries can derail seasons, some teams prioritize veteran depth even at a higher cost. Others prefer to develop younger, cheaper talent.

Strategic Decision: Stability vs. Upside

Ultimately, the decision could come down to philosophical preference.

• Cooper Rush represents stability. He’s experienced, steady, and proven within Dallas’ system.

• Joe Milton represents upside. He offers physical tools and athletic traits but lacks meaningful starting experience.

If the Cowboys believe they are firmly in championship contention in 2026, they may prioritize the safer option behind Prescott. If they’re comfortable investing in Milton’s development, they could stay the course and maintain roster flexibility.

Is a 2026 Reunion Realistic?

Given the circumstances, a 2026 reunion between Cooper Rush and the Dallas Cowboys is far from far-fetched.

If the Baltimore Ravens move on for cap reasons or due to performance concerns, Rush would likely attract interest around the league. However, familiarity, fit, and organizational comfort could give Dallas an edge.

For the Cowboys, the question isn’t whether Rush can serve as a capable backup — he already proved that. The real question is whether bringing him back aligns with their financial priorities and long-term quarterback development strategy.

As the 2026 offseason approaches, keep an eye on Baltimore’s roster decisions. If Rush hits the open market, don’t be surprised if the Dallas Cowboys at least make the call.

In the unpredictable world of the NFL, reunions happen all the time — and this one might make more sense than most.